Intestinal parasites represent a global public health problem, affecting millions of people and animals each year. These parasites can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to serious complications, thus impacting the quality of life and well-being of individuals. Treatment of parasitic infections requires the use of antiparasitic deworming drugs, and it is crucial to understand the adapted dosage to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and minimize potential side effects.
The Different Types of Dewormers and Their Mechanisms of Action
Antiparasitic deworming drugs are classified into different categories according to their specific mode of action. Each class of dewormer targets a specific group of parasites, and the dosage varies depending on the type of parasite being treated. It is important to note that some dewormers may have different effectiveness against different types of parasites.
Classification of Deworming Drugs
- Benzimidazoles: These drugs, such as albendazole and mebendazole, work by blocking the formation of microtubules in parasites, which disrupts their metabolism and growth. They are particularly effective against nematodes such as roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.
- Macrolides: Drugs in this class, such as ivermectin and moxidectin, work by blocking nerve impulses in parasites, paralyzing and killing them. They are often used to treat infections of onchocerciasis and strongyloidiasis.
- Tetrahydropyrimidines: These drugs, such as pyrantel pamoate, work by paralyzing the muscles of the parasites, preventing them from attaching to the intestine and feeding. They are mainly used against roundworms and hookworms.
- Praziquantel: This drug is an anthelmintic that works by increasing the permeability of the cell membrane of parasites, which causes their death. It is mainly used to treat infections with cestodes (tapeworm) and trematodes (flukes).
Drug Specialization and Types of Parasites
Different types of intestinal parasites require specific treatments. Here is a description of the main types of parasites and the drugs most often used to treat them:
- Nematodes: These roundworms, such as roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides), hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum and Ancylostoma braziliense), and whipworms (Trichuris trichiura), live in the small intestine and can cause digestion problems, abdominal pain, weight loss, appetite disorders, and nutritional deficiencies. Benzimidazoles and tetrahydropyrimidines are generally used to treat these infections.
- Cestodes: These flatworms, such as tapeworms (Taenia solium and Taenia saginata), live in the small intestine and can cause abdominal pain, nausea, weight loss, and digestive disorders. Praziquantel is the drug of choice for treating cestode infections.
- Trematodes: These flatworms, such as flukes (Fasciola hepatica), live in the liver and can cause abdominal pain, nausea, weight loss, liver complications, and digestive disorders. Praziquantel is also effective against trematode infections.
Determining the Adapted Dosage: A Multifactorial Process
The adapted dosage of deworming drugs depends on several factors, and it is crucial to take each of these aspects into account when choosing the optimal treatment.
Key Dosage Factors
- Patient's Age and Weight: Dosage is generally adjusted according to the patient's age and weight, with children and the elderly often requiring lower doses. For example, the dose of mebendazole for a 2-year-old child is much lower than that of a 70 kg adult. It is important to follow the manufacturer's specific recommendations and consult a health professional to determine the optimal dosage.
- Type of Parasite: Dosage varies depending on the type of parasite being treated. A single dose of albendazole may be sufficient to treat a roundworm infection, while hookworm infections may require multiple doses, typically for 3 consecutive days.
- Severity of the Infection: A more severe parasitic infection may require a higher dosage or a longer duration of treatment. For example, a roundworm infection with severe symptoms may require a higher dose and several days of treatment.
- Immune Status: People with a weakened immune system may require higher doses or longer treatments to fight the infection. It is crucial to consult a doctor for a personalized assessment.
- Presence of Other Pathologies: It is important to consider the patient's pre-existing conditions when choosing the dosage, as some pathologies may interfere with the effectiveness of the drug or increase the risk of side effects. For example, people with liver problems may have increased sensitivity to the side effects of dewormers.
- Drug Interactions: Some medications may interact with dewormers, which can affect their effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. It is therefore important to tell your doctor all the medications you are taking before starting deworming treatment. Some dewormers, such as ivermectin, may interact with certain antidepressant drugs.
- Lifestyle and Environment: Eating habits, access to clean water, and personal hygiene can play a role in the prevention and treatment of parasitic infections.
Role of the Health Professional
It is crucial to consult a doctor or veterinarian for the diagnosis and prescription of deworming drugs. Health professionals are trained to determine the optimal dosage based on the specific factors of each patient, taking into account their general health status, medical history, and environmental factors.
Consultation and Prescription
During the consultation, the doctor will ask questions about your symptoms, medical history, and current medications. They will perform a physical examination and, if necessary, laboratory tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of parasite responsible for the infection. The doctor will then prescribe the appropriate medication and optimal dosage based on your situation.
Dosage Recommendations for the Main Dewormers
Here is a summary table of the recommended dosages for the most commonly used dewormers, depending on the type of parasite, age, and weight of the patient. It is important to note that this information is given for informational purposes only and that the exact dosage may vary depending on the case. It is crucial to consult a health professional to determine the dosage appropriate for your specific situation.
| Drug | Type of Parasite | Age | Weight | Dosage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albendazole | Roundworm, Hookworm, Whipworm | > 2 years | < 40 kg | 400 mg once a day for 3 days |
| Mebendazole | Roundworm, Hookworm, Whipworm | > 2 years | < 40 kg | 100 mg twice a day for 3 days |
| Ivermectin | Onchocerciasis, Strongyloidiasis | > 5 years | - | 150 µg/kg once a day |
| Pyrantel pamoate | Roundworm, Hookworm | > 6 months | - | 11 mg/kg once a day |
| Praziquantel | Cestodes (tapeworm), Trematodes (flukes) | > 4 years | - | 5 mg/kg twice a day for 1 day |
Administration Tips
Deworming drugs are usually administered orally. It is important to follow the instructions of the doctor or pharmacist regarding the dosage and duration of treatment.
Tablets and suspensions should be taken with a meal to maximize drug absorption. Capsules can be swallowed whole with a glass of water. It is important not to crush, chew, or open the capsules.
Duration of Treatment
The duration of treatment varies depending on the type of parasite and the severity of the infection. The doctor will determine the optimal duration of treatment. Do not stop treatment before the end of the prescribed duration, even if you feel better.
Side Effects and Precautions for Use
Deworming drugs are generally well tolerated, but they can cause side effects, which are usually mild and disappear quickly.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects of deworming drugs include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, abdominal pain, and muscle pain.
Serious Side Effects
Although rare, some serious side effects can occur, including allergic reactions, liver problems, neurological disorders, joint pain, and vision problems. It is important to contact a doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects.
Precautions for Use
It is important to take certain precautions when using deworming drugs, including:
- Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: The use of deworming drugs during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be discussed with a doctor. Some classes of drugs may be harmful to the fetus or infant.
- Young Children: The dosage and frequency of administration of deworming drugs in young children should be determined by a doctor. Some dewormers are not recommended for children under 2 years of age.
- People with Certain Pathologies: People with liver, kidney, or other chronic diseases should consult a doctor before taking deworming drugs.
- Elderly People: Elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects of medications, so it is important to consult a doctor to determine the appropriate dosage.
- Pets: Deworming drugs for pets should not be used in humans.
Contraindications
Deworming drugs are contraindicated in certain people, including those who are allergic to any of the ingredients in the drug, those who have severe liver problems, or certain types of cancer.
Prevention of Parasitic Infections: An Essential Strategy
Prevention of parasitic infections is essential to avoid health complications.
Good Hygiene Practices
- Handwashing: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after using the toilet, before preparing food, and after touching animals.
- Cooking Food: Cook food at sufficiently high temperatures to kill parasites, including meat and fish. The internal temperature of the meat should reach 71°C to eliminate parasites.
- Drinking Potable Water: Drink potable water from reliable sources or boiled water.
- Personal Hygiene: Shower or bathe regularly, wear clean clothes, and change regularly.
Vaccination against Parasites
There are vaccines available for the prevention of certain parasitic infections, including schistosomiasis and lymphatic filariasis. Vaccination is especially important for people living in areas at risk.
Preventive Treatments
Preventive treatments may be recommended for people at risk of parasitic infection, including travelers to regions where parasitic infections are common.
It is important to consult a health professional regarding the most appropriate prevention measures based on your situation.
Deworming drugs are important tools for fighting parasitic infections. By following the doctor's recommendations and applying prevention measures, you can help minimize the risk of infection and protect your health.